PRIORITY STREETS FOCUS OF POTHOLE REPAIRS

Saskatoon is no stranger to big temperature changes at any time of year.  In winter, large temperature fluctuations can cause ground shifts resulting in small cracks in the asphalt. As a result potholes develop when the ground expands and contracts with the freeze/thaw of the water in the cracks. Vehicle traffic also breaks away the edges of the pothole, making the pothole bigger.

City crews are focusing efforts on priority streets and repairing potholes in the driving lanes with cold mix asphalt. This is largely a temporary measure until hot asphalt mix is available in late April or early May. So far this winter, 45 tonnes of cold mix asphalt has been used to repair potholes.

Reports received for residential streets that have hazardous or significant potholes in the driving lane will be investigated.  Warning barricades may be installed until either temporary or permanent repairs can be made. Residents are encouraged to report these locations by calling our Customer Service Centre at 306-975-2476.  An enhanced online Report a Pothole map will be available at Saskatoon.ca in time for the Spring Pothole Blitz repair program.

In addition to potholes, approximately 546 utility cuts, which are excavations required to connect, repair or maintain underground utilities, are being maintained as required with a grader until they can be permanently paved. Permanent repairs can only be made with hot mix asphalt once the ground frost has thawed.

With even warmer temperatures forecast for this weekend crews are actively engaged in clearing catch basins to prevent water ponding issues. Additionally, crews are busy clearing culvert systems throughout the city to prevent flooding.

Residents can find out more about how to prevent spring melt flooding around their home by searching ‘spring melt’ at saskatoon.ca.

If drivers encounter severe rutting, hazardous potholes, blocked catch basins or other emergency road conditions, they’re asked to report it by calling Public Works Customer Service at 306-975-2476.

For more information on the City’s snow management programs visit saskatoon.ca/snow.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City on Twitter and Facebook.